Pinterest Catalogs the World Through Shazam-Like Visual Tool

Have you ever seen something incredibly interesting, but can’t find the right words to Google it when you get home? We all know how annoying that is. You have this rich, colorful image in your mind, but even your best search query can’t make it reappear on your screen. But thanks to Pinterest, these sufferings will soon be a thing of the past.

Earlier today, Feb. 8, Pinterest announced Lens, a beta project capable of “seeing the world the way you do.” Basically, it uses the camera in the Pinterest app to discover ideas inspired by objects you see IRL. For example, say you see a pair of shoes and you’re looking for related styles. Just point Lens at the object and get inspired by the results, similarly to using Shazam to identify a song. And the best part? The more people who use it, the smarter it gets.

Not only can you find ideas using objects you see out in the world, but Pinterest has also made it possible to intelligently source new ideas within the app using Instant Ideas. When you come across something interesting, just tap the circle that appears on each Pin to instantly unlock related ideas and concepts. In essence, it lets you instantly reshape your feed around whatever catches your eye, all without losing your spot.

If all of this wasn’t enough, Pinterest also introduced Shop the Look, an extension of the Buyable Pins program which enables ‘pinners’ to buy a specific item directly on Pinterest. Simply tap the circle on each item to find the styles you’re looking for. You can even see what other people have paired it with for additional inspiration.

Instant Ideas and Shop the Look are available now on iPhone, Android and the web. Lens will be rolling out in the US over the coming weeks.